How to Care for Pinus Halepensis

Pinus halepensis, commonly known as aleppo pine, originates from the Mediterranean climate area of U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9 and 10, where the tree is hardy. This erect evergreen reaches 65 feet tall, growing up to 36 inches each year. Its light-green, short needles are bundled in clusters of two, and its brown cones grow up to 3 inches long. This tree overwhelms small yards and lives more than 150 years.

1

Examine the aleppo pine tree's location to determine whether or not it is in the correct conditions. An aleppo pine tree prefers full to partial sun exposure with lots of space around it so it can spread as it matures. Cut back branches from other trees with a pruning saw if the aleppo pine is in dense shade or becomes crowded.

2

Spread a 2- to 4-inch layer of organic mulch around the tree's base, but keep the mulch at least 6 inches from the trunk to prevent stem rot. Use mulch such as shredded leaves, dried grass clippings or pine straw. Extend the mulch past the tree's drip line, which is below the tips of its outermost branches. Mulch reduces weed growth; weeds compete with a tree for soil moisture and nutrients.

3

Water the aleppo pine tree two to three times each month when the weather is hot and dry. Attach one end of a garden hose to a faucet, and place the hose's other end near the tree's base. Turn on the faucet, and let water run slowly from the hose until the tree's area is flooded. Watering is important while the tree is young and grows quickly. An aleppo pine tree tends to drop its needles prematurely when it is under water stress. Do not water the tree during the cool months.

4

Rake the tree's needles that fall in spring to collect them, and put them in your compost pile. An alternative to raking the needles is to leave them around the tree's base to act as a natural mulch. The tree sheds its old needles regularly in spring, creating a thick, natural mulch, or thatch, on the ground. As the needles break down, they feed the soil slowly with nutrients.

About the Author

Karen Carter spent three years as a technology specialist in the public school system and her writing has appeared in the "Willapa Harbor Herald" and the "Rogue College Byline." She has an Associate of Arts from Rogue Community College with a certificate in computer information systems.